If you love the flavor of takeout but don’t love the bloated, sluggish feeling afterward — this one’s for you.

This Panda Express Chow Mein Copycat is just as tasty as the original, but made with simple, clean ingredients in your own kitchen. I started making this when I was craving noodles but didn’t want to load up on grease or MSG. And honestly? It’s now one of our most-requested dinners (even my kids ask for it!).

It’s quick, flavorful, and totally customizable. Add chicken, shrimp, or keep it vegetarian—it’s a clean eating comfort meal that’s fast enough for weeknights.

Ingredients

• 8 oz whole wheat spaghetti or yakisoba noodles (or gluten-free if needed)

• 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil

• 2 cups shredded green cabbage

• 1 cup shredded carrots

• 1/2 onion, thinly sliced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

For the Sauce:

• 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos

• 1 tbsp oyster sauce or hoisin sauce (look for low-sugar options)

• 1 tsp sesame oil

• 1/2 tsp ground ginger

• Optional: 1/2 tsp honey for added sweetness

Instructions

1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain, rinse, and set aside.

2. In a large skillet or wok, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion, cabbage, and carrots. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until softened.

3. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. In a small bowl, whisk together all the sauce ingredients.

5. Add cooked noodles to the skillet and pour the sauce over. Toss everything together until evenly coated and heated through.

6. Serve hot, topped with extra green onions or sesame seeds if you like!

Why I Love This Recipe

It’s warm, cozy, and hits that noodle craving hard—but it’s made with real, wholesome ingredients that leave me feeling energized, not heavy. I love making a big batch and having leftovers for lunch the next day. It also works great with leftover chicken, shrimp, or tofu tossed in.

When I was learning to clean up my favorite comfort meals, this one quickly became a keeper. It’s takeout flavor, the healthy way.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Makes 3)

• Calories: 380

• Protein: 12g

• Carbohydrates: 42g

• Fiber: 6g

• Fat: 18g